B&FT’s Western Regional correspondent reports that personnel of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), working with the Blue Water Guards, have intensified operations against illegal mining along the Ankobra River, destroying several machines and disrupting activities in parts of the Western Region.
Illegal mining hotspots within the Nzema East district covering a stretch of the river from Gwira Banso to Tumentu were targetted. The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining commonly known as galamsey, which continues to threaten water-bodies and surrounding communities.
At Gwira Banso, the taskforce encountered approximately 20 individuals actively engaged in illegal mining along the riverbank. The team quickly moved to intercept the group, forcing the operators to abandon their activities.
A search of the area uncovered about 20 changfan machines in operation, along with several concealed water pumping hoses used to draw and discharge water directly into the river. The equipment was dismantled and destroyed on-site, while the hoses were seized and burnt to prevent reuse.
Further downstream at Eshiem, the taskforce identified another illegal mining site involving five modified boats stationed in a mining pit. The boats were fitted with an estimated 10 changfan machines. Operators fled upon sighting the approaching team, leaving behind the equipment.
NAIMOS says the exercise demonstrates its continued resolve, in collaboration with partner agencies, to clamp down on illegal mining activities and protect the country’s water resources.
This Paper applauds the resolve of NAIMOS, even under extreme provocation and danger, to clamp down and eliminate illegal mining which has wrought devastating havoc to the environment, particularly the country’s water-bodies by polluting them heavily with toxic heavy metals, discolouration and spreading disease.
Galamsey is an existential threat to sustainability and the well-being of our compatriots who depend on these water-bodies for their livelihood.
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